1 "Ahh," sighed Nemesis. "There is nothing like mountain-raised beef. I don't know why you choose to spoil yours by hanging it in the fire."2 Arion laughed. "I'd guess you wouldn't since you refuse to try some. It's very good, by the way."3 Since reaching his full growth, Nemesis the gryphon preferred to hunt live prey. The small, mountain cattle were perfect for his appetite. As a favor to Arion, he let the boy take his favorite cut first.4 Eating was a messy business. Once done with his meal, Nemesis glided over to a nearby stream. He glanced at his reflection for a moment before plunging his golden feathered head into the water. He shook his head and neck, scattering droplets in every direction. Then he repeated the process twice more before he was satisfied.5 He leapt into the air and was near Arion with two strokes of his broad wings.6 "Are you done with your meat yet?" asked the gryphon.7 "I am," nodded Arion. "Just let me dispose of this stuff." He tossed the remaining wooden skewer into the low flames. Then he tossed dirt onto the fire until only a thin tendril of smoke remained. Next, he rushed down to the stream and washed his own hands and face. Then he struggled into his tunic.8 Last of all, Arion picked up the message scroll. He gauged the time from the position of the sun and glanced through the text of the message once more.9 "We'd better get going, Nemesis, or we're going to be late."